Garmin signs young Aussie Haas

American team Garmin-Cervelo has signed Australian Nathan Haas to its 2012 roster following his recent wins in the Japan Cup and the Herald Sun Tour.

Haas, a student at Sydney University studying socio-legal studies, had been a part-time cyclist with a Tasmanian team prior to getting his big chance to join the elite peloton.

"For me, signing with Garmin-Cervelo is a dream come true," said Haas, who came runner-up in the Australian under-23 road championships in 2010.

"To even be considered as part of such an incredible outfit is humbling in itself."

Haas, 22, will meet his team-mates at their first 2012 training camp in Boulder in November.

Jonathan Vaughters, cheif executive of Slipstream Sports and sports director of the team, said: "Nathan has exceptional talent. At such a young age, he is already is one of those unique riders who figures out a way to win, no matter what style or level of race he is competing in.

"We think this is just the beginning for him, and we're excited to see how he continues to develop as a rider."